prefab

[ adjective noun pree-fab; verb pree-fab ]

adjective

1. prefabricated.

noun

1. something that is prefabricated, as a building or fixture:

   You would never know that such an attractive house is a prefab.

verb (used with object)

, pre·fabbed, pre·fab·bing.

1. to prefabricate.

prefab

/ ˈpriːˌfæb /

noun

1. 1. a building that is prefabricated, esp a small house
   2. ( as modifier )

      a prefab house

Word History and Origins

Origin of prefab¹

First recorded in 1935–40; by shortening

Example Sentences

A prefab “welcome center,” about the size of a trailer, is due to open by year’s end, to be followed eventually by a larger visitor center.

From Los Angeles Times

Three families live in tarpaulin-covered shelters full of bunk beds for some 50 young men, who study in a yeshiva that is a shabby prefab structure surrounded by abandoned toys, building materials and garbage.

From New York Times

There’s also some debate in the community as to whether the Aluminaire House qualifies as “prefab.”

From New York Times

The arrival of the prefab units was a sign that many of the more than 87,000 people resettled after the Monday night earthquake may be homeless for some time.

From Seattle Times

Is the prefab home set for a comeback?

From BBC

Related Words

• development
• manufacture
• plan
• planning
• structure
• system